CAMBRIDGE — Effective immediately, the State of Maryland has announced state retirees will not have to enroll in Medicare Part D prescription coverage, as of Oct. 15. State retirees learned in June their contracted benefit providing prescription coverage from the state was being terminated the coming year and those retirees would be required to enroll in Medicare Part D this October. Now a federal court judge has approved a temporary injunction on this action and benefits will remain the same until the outcome of a full evidentiary hearing. Delmarva Community Services, Inc. staff representing the Maryland Department of Aging counsel and enroll Dorchester county residents who receive Medicare and are required to enroll in Part D prescription coverage. Several meetings have been held at the agency to explain the program to state retirees. “We have received calls daily from retirees who are very concerned, confused and quite honestly upset about the change happening to them,” LaToya Jackson of DCS said. “We prepared to handle the extra load of folks needing our help along with all other individuals who are required to have prescription coverage. We will still make ourselves available to them if they have any questions now and again when the case is completed if needed.” All other Medicare recipients must have prescription coverage and should have their coverage reviewed each year. “Prescription coverage is required by law,” Mary Handley of DCS said. “Anyone receiving Medicare must have coverage from an employer or self pay and if neither of those, then a Part D plan. Now retirees are considered covered. Any other individuals should call Delmarva Community Services, Inc. to arrange an appointment to enroll or review their prescription coverage”. Open Enrollment will continue until Dec. 7. Ms. Handley said it is important for all folks to review their coverage annually, because there are often changes each year. Ms. Jackson said, “DCS can also enroll individuals who qualify in subsidy programs that can help them with any associated costs of having a plan. Many people are not aware these programs exist and we are happy see if they qualify and we will complete their applications for them.” Anyone needing information or assistance regarding Part D prescription insurance may call LaToya Jackson at 410-221-1930 or Mary Handley at 410-221-1900 Ext. 138. Appointments are available now and a special open house for Part D will be held Friday from 9 a.m to 12 noon in Hurlock then from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in Cambridge. Part D enrollment and review is free.